Carrot Cake Cookies

Why Make This Recipe

Carrot Cake Cookies are a delightful treat that brings the flavors of traditional carrot cake into a convenient cookie form. They are soft, chewy, and packed with warm spices, making them perfect for any occasion. Plus, they are easy to make! You can enjoy them with a cup of tea or share them with friends and family. The addition of cream cheese frosting drizzled on top takes these cookies to another level of deliciousness.

How to Make Carrot Cake Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup grated carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
• Cream cheese frosting for drizzling

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy.
4. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in the grated carrots and chopped nuts.
7. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Drizzle with cream cheese frosting before serving.

How to Serve Carrot Cake Cookies

These cookies can be served warm or at room temperature. They are great as a snack or dessert. If you want to impress your guests, serve them alongside a cup of coffee or tea. The cream cheese frosting makes them even more special, so don’t forget to drizzle some on top!

How to Store Carrot Cake Cookies

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw and drizzle with the cream cheese frosting!

Tips to Make Carrot Cake Cookies

• Make sure the butter is softened, not melted, for the best texture.
• Grate the carrots finely to ensure they mix well with the dough.
• You can add raisins or shredded coconut for extra flavor and texture.
• Adjust the spices to your taste; if you love cinnamon, feel free to add a bit more!

Variation

You can try making these cookies gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. This way, everyone can enjoy them! Another variation is to use different types of nuts or to skip the nuts entirely if you prefer a smoother cookie.

FAQs

Q: Can I use pre-packaged grated carrots?
A: Yes, you can use pre-packaged grated carrots to save time. Just make sure they are fresh.

Q: What kind of nuts can I use in this recipe?
A: You can use walnuts or pecans, but feel free to experiment with other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts if you prefer.

Q: How do I make the cream cheese frosting?
A: For a simple cream cheese frosting, mix together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle it over the cooled cookies.